The unique relationship between the shepherd and the sheep is that the sheep listens to the voice of the shepherd.
The sheep follow the shepherd whenever he calls out to them and they follow him.
That is why is the image of the sheep following the shepherd is used in the gospel.
But there can be instances when a sheep do not listen to the voice of the shepherd and goes astray.
That happens when a sheep is sick and gets disoriented and gets confused by other sounds.
That is why the shepherd has to take care of the sheep and tend to those who are sick.
When we are physically and spiritually healthy, we will be able to keep our focus on the Lord and walk according to His ways.
But when we sin, we become spiritually sick and we get confused and disoriented and lose focus on the Lord.
As much as the Lord wants to heal us, we must also realise that we need His help because we cannot heal ourselves of our sin.
Let us remember to go for the Sacrament of Reconciliation regularly so that we can be forgiven and healed of our sins and be able to listen to the voice of the Lord and have peace of mind and heart.